Microsoft's Internet Explorer 7.0 - code-named "Rincon" - might just get back that 10% or so it lost to Firefox and other browsers if it comes through on it's promise of a safer and more practical browser. It was supposed to come only once Longhorn was ready but they must have had a change of heart and decided to release it independently for Windows XP.

Microsoft are tight lipped about IE 7.0's features but some of their partners involved are not. Thanks to Microsoft Watch we get news that the browser will be tabbed ['bout time] and will "feature international domain name (IDN) support; transparent Portable Network Graphics (PNG) support, which will allow for the display of overlayed images in the browser; and new functionality that will simplify printing from inside IE 7.0 [like Firefox], partner sources said. The new browser also will likely include a built-in news aggregator."

Some of Microsoft's partners lending a helping hand include WholeSecurity which worked on the anti-phishing component integrated into the browser. A filter which "identifies and blocks fraudulent Web sites that try and deceive users in efforts to obtain their bank account details and other personal information." Just what the doctor ordered if you ask me.
Read on at eWeek.com.

You can also obtain a beta version from Microsoft for testing if you are a Web or software developer.